Nominations are now open for the Heropreneurs Awards 2026, honouring entrepreneurs and innovators from the Armed Forces community.
The awards, delivered by the Forces Employment Charity, celebrate the achievements of the UK Armed Forces community including veterans, serving personnel, reservists, and their families.
Since launching in 2018, the Heropreneurs Awards, sponsored by Warwick Business School, have recognised the drive, resilience and innovation found within the Armed Forces community. The awards shine a light on businesses at every stage, from early start-ups to established enterprises, all united by a strong sense of purpose and impact.
Award categories:
- Warwick Business School MBA Scholarship Award
Sponsored by Warwick Business School (WBS), this award is open to veterans, serving members of the Armed Forces, reservists, and their immediate family members demonstrating entrepreneurial spirit through involvement in a business venture or innovative project. The winner will receive a scholarship to cover 100% of tuition fees for an MBA programme of their choice at WBS, worth up to £69,980, and significant scholarships are available for runners-up. Applications for this award close on Sunday 26 April.
- Heropreneur of the Year
Sponsored by Goldman Sachs, this award recognises an individual who has created or is running a successful business while serving as a positive force within the military business community.
- Product of the Year
Celebrating excellence and innovation, this award recognises outstanding products brought to market by the military business community across any sector.
- Start-Up of the Year
Awarded to a business in its early stages that has successfully transitioned from concept to operation, with a clear commercial offering, strong business plan and enthusiastic leadership.
- Micro Enterprise of the Year
This award celebrates small businesses that exemplify entrepreneurial strength, operational stability, and sustained performance. The business must employ fewer than 10 people and show consistent trading performance. Freelancers and sole traders are eligible.
- Technology Business of the Year
Recognises a business where technology is central to its operations, whether through developing, manufacturing, or providing technology as a service.
Alistair Halliday, Chief Executive of the Forces Employment Charity, said:
“The Heropreneurs Awards celebrate the remarkable ingenuity and resilience found across the Armed Forces community.
“Every year, we see individuals who not only build successful businesses but also create positive change for others. Their drive, generosity and determination embody the very best of what our community has to offer. I’m delighted to open nominations for 2026 and look forward to recognising more outstanding achievements.”
Andy Lockett, Professor of Strategy & Entrepreneurship and Dean of WBS, said:
“We are delighted to be partnering with Heropreneurs for the ninth consecutive year.
“At Warwick Business School, we believe the future needs smart ideas and leaders who can bring them to life. So, with the WBS Award we are looking for Change Makers – individuals who are bold enough to challenge the status quo and brave enough to change things.”
Heropreneurs is a programme of the Forces Employment Charity, dedicated to supporting the entrepreneurial ambitions of the military community. It builds a supportive community for Armed Forces entrepreneurs through mentoring, networking, and recognition.
Nominations for the Heropreneurs Awards close on 14 June 2026. This year’s awards will be held at The Shard, London, on Monday 2 November.
For more information and to submit a nomination, please visit Heropreneurs Awards nominations | Forces Employment Charity.
